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By EverythingGP staff.
Orange Shirt Day

“Reconciliation is about more than a single day” says NDTR statement from Minister Sawhney

Sep 30, 2026 | 11:17 AM

Alberta’s Minister of Indigenous Relations Rajan Sawhney issued the following statement on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation:

“On September 30, we honour Survivors, families and communities who continue to live with the impacts of the residential school system.

“On this day, orange shirts are worn as a visible act of remembrance for children whose language, culture and identity were taken from them. They are also a reminder of the lasting harms of residential schools and the importance of ensuring these truths are never forgotten.

“We are also called to recognize that reconciliation is about more than a single day. Reconciliation takes time, care and sustained effort. It is shaped by relationships built on listening, respect and a willingness to learn, and by supporting Indigenous-led knowledge, perspectives and priorities.

“Alberta’s government supports reconciliation by working with First Nations and Métis partners to advance community priorities. Through programs like the Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation, these partnerships are creating long-term economic opportunities. Since 2019, the AIOC has provided more than $745 million in loan guarantees to 43 Indigenous communities through nine major commercial transactions. Alberta’s government is also supporting Indigenous-led, culturally relevant programs like the two recovery communities that are now open – Blood Tribe iitakamotsiipiohsopi Recovery Community and Siksika Iitaisokinaapyoyis (Healing Lodge), with three more on the way in Tsuut’ina Nation, Métis Crossing, and Enoch Cree Nation.

“These efforts are part of a broader commitment to support Indigenous-led priorities through investments in housing, infrastructure, transportation, economic development, education, language revitalization and community well-being, while continuing to strengthen partnerships with First Nations and Métis communities across Alberta.

“The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a reminder to carry remembrance beyond a single day. By listening with humility, learning from the past and strengthening relationships over time, we can help ensure that Survivors are honoured and that families and communities are met with respect.”

by EverythingGP staff.